Record Volleyball Tournament is a Smash

Former winners GH Podiatry reclaimed their crown in a thrilling finale to the Battens Solicitors charity beach volleyball tournament in Weymouth.

They battled it out with defending champions Team NewBody to take the honours in an 18-12 victory at the eighth annual extravaganza.

Organisers from Battens expect to have raised record proceeds this year, well in excess of £1037 raised last year.

This year's beneficiary, the Friends of Wyvern School will use the funds towards playground equipment that will provide exciting, challenging but safe play opportunities for all youngsters regardless of their disability.

Some 32 teams from local companies and organisations hit the sands for the popular tournament.

It is held as the annual curtain raiser to the televised RAF Careers Weymouth Beach Volleyball Classic and this year forms part of the resort's first Sport & Wellbeing Festival.

Cherise Luke-Bennett, one of the solicitors organising the competition in Battens' Weymouth office, said: "The exciting final between 2013 winners GH Podiatry and 2014 champions Team NewBody was a fitting finish to our best tournament yet.

"Everyone enjoyed the carnival atmosphere on the beach and we hope to have raised a record amount for our beneficiary, the Friends of Wyvern School.

"Congratulations to our worthy winners GH Podiatry, who were very keen to get their hands on the trophy after losing out last year."

She added: "Thanks go to all of those who took part and supported the tournament.

"They include Bennett's on the Waterfront for the catering and a very generous donation, Aura for the bar and a donation and Wessex FM for bringing their roadshow.

"Thanks also to the Weymouth Ukuleleans who provided half time entertainment, which saw some of the teams dancing in the sand, as well as the RAF, Weymouth Volleyball Club, and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council."

Teams played in groups on beach courts before the grand final on the centre court.